Most Hit-and-Run Convictions Do Not Result in Prison Time, New Study Finds

Although many hit-and-run convictions do not result in prison time for the convicted individuals, these people can still face car accident or wrongful death lawsuits in civil court.

More than 60 percent of hit-and-run cases in Denver that end in convictions do not ultimately result in prison time for the convicted individual despite the fact that hit-and-run felony charges can be punishable by up to six years in prison. This shocking finding, which was the result of an in-depth analysis conducted by reporters at the Denver Post, was specifically derived from the fact that, since 2008:

The charge of “leaving the scene of an accident involving serious bodily injury,” which is a Class 4 felony charge (that is punishable by between two to six years in prison), has been filed within the state of Colorado 461.

281 of these Class 4 felony charges were later dismissed by prosecutors, usually as part of a plea deal (in which the defendant pleads guilty to lesser charges).

Of the 80 charges of “leaving the scene of an accident involving death,” 31 of these charges were later dropped by prosecutors.

It’s important to note that, although the dismissal of the more serious felony charges typically results in prison time being taken off the table for defendants:

Convicted individuals still have to face and complete other penalties, including rigorous probation, expensive fines and community service.

Convicted individuals will have the felony convictions on their records for the rest of their lives (and often can lose their professional licenses – like their teaching licenses – due to such convictions).

Convicted individuals can still be held accountable for their negligence in civil courts if the victims and their families choose to pursue a car accident or wrongful death lawsuit against them.

The outcome of the criminal case – particularly if it results in a guilty plea from the defendant – will be critical evidence in a car accident or wrongful death lawsuit, as it establishes criminal negligence that can be used to prove guilt in civil cases.

Lone Tree Car Accident Attorneys

If you have been injured in or have lost a loved one in a truck accident, car accident or in any type of traffic accident, you are encouraged to consult with the motor vehicle accident lawyers at the Law Office of Mike Hulen, PC. Meeting with one of our esteemed attorneys as soon as your health is stabilized can ensure that you ultimately have the strongest case possible, as waiting will start immediately running out the statute of limitations for your case and could even result in the loss of critical evidence.

Our trusted Lone Tree personal injury and accident attorneys have a proven track record of successfully handling car accident cases, wrongful death suits and other types of personal injury lawsuits, and we are experienced at helping victims and their families secure the maximum possible settlement for their losses. We encourage those who think they may have a claim to meet with us for a free initial consult to learn more about their legal rights and to receive a thorough evaluation of their case. Call us at (303) 932-8666 to get your case started at no upfront cost.

Mike Hulen, PC

303-932-8666

225 Union Blvd., Ste. 150 Lakewood, CO 80228

Mike Hulen, PC, is located in Denver and serves clients from the Denver Tech Center, Littleton, Aurora, Castle Rock, Centennial, Conifer, Englewood, Evergreen, Golden, Lakewood, Monument, Parker, Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch and Arvada, as well as Adams County, Arapahoe County, Boulder County, Broomfield County, Clear Creek County, Denver County, Douglas County, Gilpin County, Jefferson County, Park County and Teller County in Colorado.